BMW 3 Series vs Chevrolet Malibu

2017 Chevrolet Malibu
2017 Chevrolet Malibu
$21,680MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2017 Chevrolet Malibu
$21,680MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

1964-1965

Years produced

1975-Present

MSRP

$21,680

MSRP

$45,950

Average price

$16,577

Average price

$21,873

Listings

8973

Listings

9295

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Snug interior
  • Front seat comfort on longer trips, hot days
  • Confusing, inconsistent names for technology

Reviews Summary

Rodney Dangerfield was a legendary stand-up comedian, and while his on-stage shtick was all about how he didn’t get any respect, as a comedic talent he was held in the highest esteem. That’s not the case for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The oft-maligned Malibu literally gets no respect, which is too bad because with its most recent redesign for the 2016 model year, the car absolutely deserves it.

Reviews Summary

To enjoy driving a new 3 Series, you don’t need to upgrade to the M340i or the M3, though we certainly wouldn’t discourage you if those models are within your budget. Instead, try the standard 330i with the M Sport Package. It’s surprisingly satisfying. Plus, minor updates and refinements make the 2025 3 Series better than ever. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain is gone, so for that, you’ll need to find a leftover 2024.

Verdict: The 2025 BMW 3 Series isn’t perfect, but it’s perfectly enjoyable to drive. Also, for a car nearing the end of its current generation, it offers remarkably advanced technology. A redesign is coming soon, but the current version remains one of our favorites.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.5L 160 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

160 hp @ 5700 rpm

Horsepower

255 hp @ 4700 rpm

MPG City

27

MPG City

28

MPG Highway

36

MPG Highway

35
2017 Chevrolet Malibu
2017 Chevrolet Malibu
$21,680MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2017 Chevrolet Malibu
$21,680MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 BMW 3 Series
$45,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
1964-1965
1975-Present
MSRP
$21,680
$45,950
Average price
$16,577
$21,873
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.3
4.5
Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Snug interior
  • Front seat comfort on longer trips, hot days
  • Confusing, inconsistent names for technology
Summary
Rodney Dangerfield was a legendary stand-up comedian, and while his on-stage shtick was all about how he didn’t get any respect, as a comedic talent he was held in the highest esteem. That’s not the case for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The oft-maligned Malibu literally gets no respect, which is too bad because with its most recent redesign for the 2016 model year, the car absolutely deserves it.

To enjoy driving a new 3 Series, you don’t need to upgrade to the M340i or the M3, though we certainly wouldn’t discourage you if those models are within your budget. Instead, try the standard 330i with the M Sport Package. It’s surprisingly satisfying. Plus, minor updates and refinements make the 2025 3 Series better than ever. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain is gone, so for that, you’ll need to find a leftover 2024.

Verdict: The 2025 BMW 3 Series isn’t perfect, but it’s perfectly enjoyable to drive. Also, for a car nearing the end of its current generation, it offers remarkably advanced technology. A redesign is coming soon, but the current version remains one of our favorites.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
1.5L 160 hp I4
2.0L 255 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
160 hp @ 5700 rpm
255 hp @ 4700 rpm
MPG City
27
28
MPG Highway
36
35
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